Training Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens at a Living Compass CWA training?

A Living Compass training is both a training and a wellness retreat experience. The best way to learn how to lead the Living Compass tools and programs is to experience some of them for one's self. You will be introduced to and learn how to use a variety of wellness tools for adults, parents, and teens. Each tool can be adapted and customized to fit your local context. At the training you will also take time to assess the wellness needs and the wellness ministry opportunities both within your faith community and the wider community at large. You will be enriched by spending several days in community with others who are also passionate about integrating faith and wellness.

WHAT HAPPENS AT A LIVING COMPASS CWA TRAINING THAT FOCUSES ON BOTH TEEN AND PARENT WELLNESS?

At a Living Compass parent and teen training you will be introduced to and learn how to facilitate both parent and teen wellness circles. You will be taught both the foundational understandings and theories that undergird the wellness circles, and be taught the skills that you will need to run the circles, Motivational Interviewing as a prime example. You will also meet others who care for the same populations, and exchanges ideas and be inspired.

It is highly recommended that you attend a training to be best prepared to facilitate either of these wellness circles, knowing however, that a training is not required. The facilitator manuals are created to be thorough enough that someone who is familiar and comfortable with running coaching groups can use the materials without further training. Please feel free to contact us with any questions about this.

Who can come to a Living Compass training?

Anyone who has an interest in the integration of faith and wellness and who plan on starting or expanding a wellness ministry in their home community. Lay and ordained people are welcome to attend. A professional background in health or wellness is not required. Anyone who is committed to promoting wellness is welcome to attend. People of any faith background and any denomination are welcome. The trainings do provide time for communal Christian prayer.

How do I apply/register?

We ask that you complete an online application/registration form which you can find by clicking the button below. Here you will be asked about any special needs, including dietary needs. We will also ask you to give us the name of someone who endorses your participation in this training. We ask for this because participants who have the support of their ministry setting will have a much better chance of implementing what is learned at the training when they return home.

Why is it suggested that a group from a church, school or community come together?

We suggest that several people from an organization come together because the group will, once back at home, put into action the plans formulated at the training. The more minds and hands you have on the team, the better your chances are of actualizing your plans once you arrive back at home. Having said this, individuals are welcome to attend without being part of a larger group.

What does the $300 fee for a Living Compass CWA training cover, and are there scholarships available?

The $300 fee covers all food, lodging and training materials. Each person in your group pays this $300 fee unless a scholarship has been awarded. Full and partial scholarships are available and can be requested when you fill out the application/registration form.

Where and what will we eat while at the training?

Breakfast will be self serve with breakfast food found in the kitchen at the Nicholas Center. Your lunches and dinner will be catered by local Chicago restaurants.

How do we get to the Nicholas center?

The Nicholas Center (65 N. Huron) can be easily reached from O'Hare or Midway airports via mass transit or car. If you come by train, Union Station is a half hour walk or a 10 minute cab ride away. Parking is within walking distance and we have reduced price parking arrangements at two local parking garages. Please get parking information from Edith at edith@livingcompass.org or 414-964-4357.

Will we have free time to explore the city?

The day you arrive is a good day to do some exploring. Feel free to drop your bags at the diocesan center's front desk and they will keep your bags until check in time. During the training there will be a few hours one day set aside for free time. Many people explore the city then. We are not able to host guest overnight either before the training begins or after it ends. All guest must depart right after the training ends. If you wish to stay in a nearby hotel either before or after your training, Edith Everly can recommend several hotels in the area.

Where will we stay?

During the training you will stay at the new Nicholas Center, a training and retreat center, located on the 5th floor of the diocesan center in Chicago. This center has 14 single rooms (each with a private bath), a central community place (where much of the training will take place) and a small efficiency kitchen. Find out more at the Nicholas Center.